What does modify mean?
Modify means to change something, usually in a measured or limited way. It is especially common when referring to editing a document, adjusting the design of an object, altering a setting, or changing the behaviour of a person, system, or process. For example, a developer may modify an application's configuration, while an editor may modify a sentence to improve its clarity. The word can sound formal or technical, but it is also common in everyday speech. Its related forms include modification, modifier, and modifiable. Although modify can broadly mean alter, it often suggests a deliberate adjustment that preserves the basic identity or purpose of what is being changed. The distinction is practical rather than absolute: a major structural change can still be described as a modification.
verbTo make a minor or limited change to something, especially a document, design, setting, or piece of text. In a more general sense, to alter the character, behaviour, or effect of something.
- To make a limited change to a document, text, design, setting, or other object.
- To alter the character, behaviour, course, or effect of something.
- To make a qualifying change or adjustment, especially in a technical, legal, or formal context.
"The committee asked us to modify the proposal before the final review."
"Users can modify the image size and colour settings in the editor."
"The new evidence may modify how historians understand the event."
From the same Latin root as moderate and modest, modify originally meant to bring something within measure or limit.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does modify come from?
Modify comes through Old French from Latin modificare, a verb formed from modus, meaning measure or manner, and facere, meaning to make. The sense developed from bringing something within a measure or limit toward making a change to it. Related English words include moderate, modest, and commodity, all of which reflect the influence of the same Latin root associated with measure, manner, or suitability.
Related word forms
How modify is actually used
Modify is widely used in formal and technical contexts and is often less forceful than alter or change. In computing, it commonly refers to changing the properties or content of a file, program, or system. The word can also imply a relatively limited adjustment, although this distinction is not absolute.
Easily confused with modify
To modify is generally to change something, whereas to moderate is usually to reduce its intensity, force, or excess.